Continuing a highly popular service, FISH of SANCAP is proud to host the United Way Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program once again. This program offers free tax preparation assistance for residents earning a household income of $66,000 or less. With the help of IRS-certified United Way volunteers, eligible individuals can have their federal tax returns prepared, e-filed, and direct-deposited at no cost.

VITA volunteers are trained to assist with tax credits, including the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), Child Tax Credits, Childcare Credits, and Education Credits, ensuring taxpayers maximize their refunds. While VITA handles simple tax returns, it cannot process returns involving rental income or self-employment income at a loss, with expenses exceeding $35,000, or with employees. If you’re unsure about eligibility, contact United Way for assistance by dialing 2-1-1 or 239-433-3900.

Beginning Fri., Feb. 7, 2025, and continuing every other Friday through Apr. 18, 2025, VITA services will be available at the Sanibel Public Library, located at 770 Dunlop Road, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Appointments are required and can be made online at unitedwaylee.org/freetaxprep or by calling 2-1-1 or 239-433-3900.

Tax returns cannot be completed without the following:

  • Valid Picture ID for all individuals filing.
  • Original Social Security or Medicare cards (or ITIN cards) for all individuals listed on the return.
  • Birth dates for everyone on the return.
  • All wage and earnings statements (e.g., W-2, 1099 forms, Social Security Income, Pensions, Unemployment Compensation).
  • A copy of last year’s federal and state tax returns (if available).
  • Documentation for dependent exemptions (e.g., Form 8332 or Form 2120).
  • Childcare provider information, including their name, Federal ID or Social Security Number, and address, as well as the amount paid.
  • Affordable Health Care Statements (Forms 1095-A, B, or C).
  • Real estate tax receipts (if applicable).
  • Bank account details for direct deposit (a voided check or account details).

For those itemizing deductions, bring a detailed summary of deductions with supporting receipts. Students or individuals paying for tuition should include tuition receipts, financial aid statements, and student loan details.

“With all the changes to tax rules, it’s so hard to keep up,” says one island resident. “Last year, I couldn’t even think about doing my taxes with everything else going on with my home repairs. The VITA volunteers made the process simple and painless, and I was on my way to other things in no time. I can’t wait to have them prepare my taxes again this year—this is such a useful service. I hope everyone takes advantage of this opportunity.”

The VITA program offered by United Way and hosted by FISH is part of FISH’s ongoing commitment to serving the residents and workforce of Sanibel and Captiva Islands. As the community’s comprehensive wrap-around social services organization, FISH provides programs and assistance ranging from long-term disaster recovery and emergency financial assistance to a food pantry, senior services, and educational workshops.

FISH is proud to partner with United Way to make this program possible, ensuring all  have access to critical tax preparation services, particularly during these challenging times of recovery and rebuilding.

To learn more about FISH’s programs and services, please contact Maria Espinoza, Executive Director, at 239-472-4775, or visit their website and social media platforms to see the impact of their work firsthand.